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Definition of wigwam

wigwam

/ˈwɪɡ.wɑːm/
wig · wam

Plural:wigwams
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wigwam Lexical Profile

wigwam Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A dome-shaped or sometimes conical dwelling formerly used by certain Native American tribes of the Northeastern and Central United States and Canada, typically constructed from a framework of arched wooden poles covered with bark, woven rush mats, or animal hides.

Example

"The historical village reconstruction features several authentic wigwams built using traditional methods and locally gathered birch bark."

Synonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

The term 'wigwam' is frequently confused with 'teepee'; a wigwam is typically a dome-shaped, semi-permanent dwelling used by Northeastern Native American tribes, while a teepee is a conical, portable tent used by Great Plains tribes.

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived in the early 17th century from Algonquian languages, such as Eastern Abenaki 'wìkəwəm' or Ojibwe 'wiigiwaam', meaning 'their house' or 'their dwelling'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Wigwam. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/wigwam
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